2003 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The Saab 9-3 was completely overhauled for 2003, as the GM-owned Swedish automaker unveiled an entirely new build platform and body styles,...
The Saab 9-3 was completely overhauled for 2003, as the GM-owned Swedish automaker unveiled an entirely new build platform and body styles, updated power plants, and a fully redesigned interior. The trim levels were also renamed, and the number of 9-3 variants was reduced from five to four.
The 9-3 SE Convertible is the only familiar name in the 2003 lineup, and it is only only available version of the convertible body. The coupe has been discontinued entirely. The five-door hatchback body has been replaced with a true four-door sedan, which is offered in three trim levels. The base model is called the Linear, followed by the mid-level Arc and the top tier Vector.
The 2.0 liter inline four returns as the foundation for the 9-3's turbocharged power plants, but two new variations of this engine are less powerful than before. The Linear's 2.0 delivers 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.0 liter unit in both the Arc and Vector models supplies 210 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The SE Convertible houses the same 205 horsepower engine. The convertible and the Linear sedan come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, and the four-speed automatic is still optional on the SE. The Arc and Vector get a six-speed manual. All sedans are eligible for a new five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is estimated at 22/31 for the sedans and 22/32 mpg for the SE Convertible.
Unfortunately, according to owners, the total redesign did not address the 9-3's questionable reliability and poor ergonomics. Reviewers noted that the interior was significantly modernized, but the poorly designed dash-mounted cup holders remained. Drivers described them as useless, flimsy and poorly placed. Owners also warned about frequent maintenance. Common issues included excessive brake wear, radiator and transmission problems and a variety of nagging electrical issues. However, others have added that the 9-3 is quite powerful for a car that achieves 30+ mpg gas mileage, and despite some continued turbo lag, the 9-3 is regarded as fun to drive.
What owners say
"Owners generally appreciate the 2003 Saab 9-3 for its sporty handling, unique style, and reliable performance. Many drivers mention the fun driving experience, especially with the turbo engine that offers good power and decent fuel economy. On the downside, some owners report issues with build quality, especially regarding materials and interior fit and finish. Noise from the car, whether it's mechanical or from annoying squeaks, is a common complaint, along with the costs of ownership which can be significant due to parts being pricier than average."
I love this car, the 2.0 Turbo is good on gas and has amazing pickup. No repairs needed, so the cost of ownership ahs been cheap! Really fun car to drive. A few interior electrical problems but they were easy to fix.
March 7, 2011A really underrated car that makes a great alternative to bmw 3s or audi a4s. In a world where a 3 series is every other car, this is truly a head turner. Fun to drive, and a really good turbo completes this ride!
November 9, 2010The 9-3 is very comparable to the other entry level European sport sedans, and even a Mazda 6. The BMW 3-series and Audi A4 are probably "nicer" and of higher quality, but the 9-3 has more HP and, in my opinion, much faster acceleration. Also, Saab is part of GM, making repairs somewhat more affordable.
March 6, 2008What owners say
I love this car, the 2.0 Turbo is good on gas and has amazing pickup. No repairs needed, so the cost of ownership ahs been cheap! Really fun car to drive. A few interior electrical problems but they were easy to fix.
March 7, 2011A really underrated car that makes a great alternative to bmw 3s or audi a4s. In a world where a 3 series is every other car, this is truly a head turner. Fun to drive, and a really good turbo completes this ride!
November 9, 2010The 9-3 is very comparable to the other entry level European sport sedans, and even a Mazda 6. The BMW 3-series and Audi A4 are probably "nicer" and of higher quality, but the 9-3 has more HP and, in my opinion, much faster acceleration. Also, Saab is part of GM, making repairs somewhat more affordable.
March 6, 2008This Saab is an attractive, nibble, and luxurious vehicle. This car revs up 175hp with a fuel economy of 35 mpg. The powertrain on this car is solid and was engineered for excellence and includes 4-link rear suspension with "ReAxs," a Power Assist Rack & Pinion Steering, a 2.0 liter, and a 4 cyclinder DOHC Turbo engine. The interior features are power driver seat, in dash 6 CD changer with Saab infotainment, automatic climate control, and heated front seats. This particular model has all pleasures of the Vector and the fuel economy of the base model which make this car a "perfectly balanced value."
July 26, 2011Remember these ratings are relative. For a poor, married, college student, this car is about as good as it gets. Solid performance. Not a burner in a straight line, but fast enough to have fun. Get the Arc if you need better acceleration. One of the best handling front wheel drive cars I've driven. Balanced, good turn in and minimal understeer. Very fun to drive. 30-35 MPG on the highway. Great interior. Comfortable seats. Soft leather and heated. High quality sound system and sunroof/moonroof. It's needed a few repairs, but I bought it used, so that's to be expected. Nothing major and no repeated repairs. It's a great choice for people who want a quality sport luxury sedan, but want something more unique than all of the BMWs and Audi's out there. The Saab has all the luxury, styling and most of the performance of the germans (maybe even better than a comparable Audi, a little behind a BMW) at a much lower price (used resale value). I've driven multiple Audi A4's and BMW 3-series 2001-2004 for comparison.
February 22, 2010low to ground, easy to scrape, Good mpg, lasts forever, sturdy build, attractive, fun to drive, has good get up and go. great handling
June 12, 2008I px`d my Micra & Porsche for this Saab 9-3, and to be honest I regretted it a few weeks after. Although it was a very quick car, with a trendy "Sport" button for extra performance, (think poor man`s Nitro!), and not too bad on fuel, there was a niggling squeaky noise that came from somewhere we could not locate. I must admit it was a great car to drive, it gave me a feel of superiority on the road, it was far better than the Ford Mondeo`s etc on the road at the time, even ones newer than the Saab. If I had to change my car again I would not hesitate to think of another Saab.
February 26, 2008I love turbo Power, Strong running engine that gets great mileage for all the horsepower (210) Great handling, Very quite driving on smooth roads, can't here the motor at all. Good sound system, 300 watts, with subwoofer, 13 speakers. Quality parts and finish.
July 30, 2014performance - acceleration is real good, good brakes, amazing handling. build quality - no repairs yet... dashboard's a little squeaky thats about it appearance - beautiful inside and out =) cost of ownership - gas mileage is pretty good fun factor - definitely fun to drive!
November 24, 2009nice body. really nice to drive and ok to repair. made in sweden, in trollhättan. Does not use too much gas. nice to drive in long trips. Pretty easy to load the bags when you are giong somewhere. thats is all for now.
July 23, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $33,265 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $26,670 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $30,765 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $40,670 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.0L 205 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
